Metformin

Question 1

Trade name

Answer 1

Glucophage XR
Glumetza
Riomet
Riomet ER

Question 2

Generic name

Answer 2

Metformin

Question 3

Drug class

Answer 3

Antidiabetics

Question 4

What is it used for?

Answer 4

Type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Action
Decreases hepatic glucose production.
Decreases intestinal glucose absorption.
Increases sensitivity to insulin.
Therapeutic Effect(s):
Maintenance of blood glucose.

Question 5

Usual Dosage

Answer 5

The usual adult dose of metformin is 500 mg twice daily for immediate-release (up to 2000–2550 mg/day in divided doses) or 500 mg once daily with the evening meal for extended-release (up to 2000 mg/day), while children aged 10–17 typically start at 500 mg twice daily, increasing weekly up to 2000 mg/day.

Question 6

How administered

Answer 6

PO

Question 7

Complications/precautions

Answer 7

Metformin use is contraindicated or requires caution in conditions like renal or hepatic impairment, metabolic acidosis, lactation, use of iodinated contrast, alcohol abuse, hypoxic states, surgery, certain endocrine disorders, pregnancy, pediatric use, and older adults due to increased risk of lactic acidosis and other complications.

Question 8

Adverse effects

Answer 8

F and E: LACTIC ACIDOSIS
GI: abdominal bloating, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, unpleasant metallic taste
Hemat: ↓ vitamin B12 levels